SSM AMC’s Healthworks receives grant

SSM AMC’s Healthworks recently received a grant for treatment of breast cancer.

Audrain Medical Center is pleased to announce that Healthworks was again awarded a grant for treatment of breast cancer related Lymphedema. The monies will provide necessary supplies including bandages, compression garments and some treatment costs based on financial need. “This is a great opportunity for those who are uninsured or underinsured to receive beneficial treatment for Lymphedema,” states Jenea Fowler Smith, PT, CLT, Director of Healthworks. New to the program will be a structured approach to educate breast cancer patients in an attempt to reduce their risk of developing Lymphedema and also an exercise challenge to promote the 2013 Susan G. Komen Mid-Missouri Race for the Cure®.
Prevention and early detection of breast cancer continues to be on the forefront in healthcare across the United States and the World.
Many women who have had surgery for breast cancer develop Lymphedema, swelling in the arm or chest due to damage to the lymph nodes and/or lymph vessels from radiation or during surgery. This swelling can cause chronic medical, physical and psychosocial problems, all affecting a woman’s quality of life. Lymphedema affects nearly 40% of breast cancer survivors.
Jenea Fowler Smith, PT, CLT and Susan Quinlan PT, UE-CLT are certified to perform the appropriate Lymphedema treatment including Manual Lymph Drainage and Complete Decongestive Therapy. Since bringing this treatment to Audrain Medical Center, numerous breast cancer patients have found relief and improved function in their daily lives from a condition that is not curable, but manageable when treated in a timely manner.
For more information about the Lymphedema Management Program, please call Healthworks at 573-582-8888.